Ty Gibbs took the victory in NASCAR’s first In-Season Challenge last weekend in Indianapolis.
The phrase “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take” is a powerful reminder. Wayne Gretzky, the iconic hockey player, popularized it. In his NHL career, Gretzky took 5,088 shots and scored 1,072 goals. Although we remember his successes, we often forget the 4,016 shots that didn’t go in.
This philosophy is relevant in the world of NASCAR, where mistakes can be remembered longer than successes, especially in the prestigious Cup Series. In the early 2000s, NASCAR underwent drastic changes, from the postseason format to the introduction of the “Car of Tomorrow”.
In its quest to attract new audiences, NASCAR transformed, moving away from its most loyal fans. At that time, the criticisms were justified. However, now it’s time to applaud, or at least appreciate, the evolution of NASCAR.
Like Gretzky, NASCAR is taking risks, but with more careful planning. If something doesn’t work, they learn and move forward. An example is the creation of a temporary Major League stadium inside a racetrack for a single game, as the Atlanta Braves and the Cincinnati Reds will do at the Bristol Motor Speedway.
The question is always: What is your motivation? Why are you doing this? Do you have a broader vision or are you just trying things out?
Joey Logano, Cup champion, on NASCAR’s willingness to try new things.
NASCAR is expanding racing on street and road courses, and is returning to historic tracks like North Wilkesboro and The Rock, even if it’s for special events. In addition, the location of the championship weekend is being rotated, starting at Homestead-Miami Speedway.
NASCAR seeks a balance between progress and respect for its history. Ben Kennedy, NASCAR executive, emphasizes the importance of maintaining familiarity in the changes.
The return of the Clash to Bowman Gray Stadium is an example of this connection to the past. Although the event will eventually move to another location, the mindset has changed. Now new ideas are tested, and if they don’t work, another alternative is sought.Chase Elliott, winner of this year’s Bowman Gray Clash, emphasizes NASCAR’s current flexibility to try new things. The 2020 pandemic forced NASCAR to adapt quickly, leading to changes in the schedule and programming. With the disappearance of long-term contracts with the tracks, the door opened to new ideas.
As the 2026 season approaches, NASCAR is evaluating its experiments. The schedule will include races in places like Mexico and Chicago, as well as an event at a naval base in San Diego. The In-Season Challenge, although initially questioned, proved to be a social media success, highlighting Ty Gibbs.
The future of NASCAR is uncertain, but exciting. Successful ideas will be maintained, while others could return. The possibility of a new points system and the incorporation of a new manufacturer are expected. Despite the changes, NASCAR remains true to its roots, with emblematic events such as the Daytona 500 and the Southern 500.
